The platform “AWRD,” which connects creators and projects, presents its new series “AWRD meets GLOBAL CREATORS” (#AMGC).
With the theme of “New Sensibilities,” the series spotlights emerging creators from around the world—designers, artists, and more—active across a wide range of fields, exploring their creative processes as well as the unique cultures of their respective countries.
For this 10th installment, we feature the Tokyo-based design unit Company2. Founded in 2022 by Wenliang.C and Ruiyu Wang, both from China, the unit has established a distinct presence in the realm of visual expression, spanning graphic design, art direction, and beyond.
Working together in Japan while coming from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, the duo generates perspectives and forms that transcend conventional frameworks.
In this interview, we spoke with Company2 about the origins of their creative journey, their activities in Tokyo, and their approach to artistic expression.
— Could you tell us how you came to start your design activities in Tokyo?
The two of us were classmates at Tokyo Zokei University and studied under Professor Yui Takada. While we were still in school, Yui invited us to collaborate on a project related to China. We went on to work together on several other projects before graduation. After graduating, we didn’t have a strong attachment to pursuing conventional employment, so with Yui’s encouragement and support, we founded Company2 and began our design work.
— Your output ranges from simple graphics to works featuring charming motifs, as well as motion graphics, showing a variety of approaches. I understand you both majored in oil painting at university—how has that kind of art background influenced your current design and creative expression?
Neither of us actually majored in graphic design at university—Chen studied oil painting, while Wang studied product design.
Coming from different fields may have naturally shaped certain “habits” in how we observe, think, and develop likes and dislikes. We believe these habits—some so ingrained we’re not even aware of them ourselves—are strongly reflected in our work.
— You’ve worked on a variety of art-related designs, such as visuals for HandSawPress’s ZINE festival and exhibition imagery for artists. Is there anything in particular you keep in mind when creating these?
For events like HandSawPress’s ZINE festival or exhibitions by various artists, the most important thing for us is to extract the key essence from the event’s concept or the artist’s work. This could be the core idea they wish to convey, the techniques they use, or the themes they explore. We make sure to fully understand and interpret these elements, then distill them into a visual focal point that is both direct and powerful.
— Both as Company2 and individually, you’ve each been active in your own ways. How do the outputs differ between your work as a unit and as individuals?
As a unit, our work mainly consists of design projects. Before we start creating, we first discuss together and divide up the tasks, then move forward.
Individually, we each engage in both graphic design and art activities, where we can act more freely and experiment. Sometimes, we share our works with each other to exchange opinions.
— In your hometowns or within Tokyo, are there any spots you’d recommend for gaining creative inspiration?
Wenliang.C:
While working, I naturally take in a lot of information about graphic design. That’s why, during my off-hours, I make it a point to value my hobbies and personal time. I love art, so I often visit art exhibitions—one of my favorite museums is the Artizon Museum. I also build models as a hobby, and whenever I visit a shop, I enjoy looking at Tamiya’s packaging. I’m fond of old toy boxes and stickers as well, so Mandarake in Nakano is another place I love. I do enjoy graphic design, but I try not to get completely consumed by it.
Ruiyu Wang:
For me, being relaxed and comfortable frees up my mind, making it easier for interesting ideas to emerge. One way I relax is by taking walks—I enjoy strolling through parks and residential neighborhoods. Compared to commercial areas with their neatly maintained streetscapes, I find it more comforting and fun to see the variety of building styles in residential areas, as well as the various objects placed in front of homes or under buildings. These details spark my imagination about the personalities and lifestyles of the people living there. I live in Sasazuka, and I often walk from there to Yoyogi Park, stopping for a meal at Anda Gyoza in Yoyogi-Uehara. I highly recommend this walking route!
— What is the most important thing for you when engaging in creative expression?
The most important thing for us is to create something pure. Rather than works that require lengthy explanations to be understood, we prefer expressions that are pure, simple, and straightforward.
— Are there any challenges you’d like to take on in the future?
We have plenty of ideas! There are many fields that connect with graphic design—music, film, products, spaces, facilities… for us, every new project is a challenge in itself. We always approach them with excitement and a spirit of trial and error.
Wenliang.C will have an exhibition project in Huizhou, Guangdong Province, China, in August. Wang will hold a solo exhibition in Tokyo in December (details of the works will be a surprise). You can find more information on Company2’s Instagram—we hope you’ll come and see it!
Company2
Company2 is a design office established in Tokyo in 2022. With the support of Yui Takada and his company Allright, the office was founded by Wenliang.C and Ruiyu Wang.
Even before its official establishment, Company2 worked across various fields including branding design, exhibition identities, editorial design, and music, and the team continues to seek opportunities to expand into other areas.
Link
Instagram：https://www.instagram.com/company2.ins/
Website：https://company2.info/
